Cyprus

Cyprus is the other EU nation to offer a direct citizenship-by-investment route. The applicant must make an investment of at least €2 million in real estate, government bonds, a bank deposit in a Cyprus bank, or investment in a new company. Investors must possess a permanent privately-owned residence in the Republic of Cyprus, the purchase price of which must be at least €500,000. The applicant, prior to his/her naturalization as a Cypriot citizen must hold a residence permit in Cyprus.

As a citizen of Cyprus, you can take advantage of a range of personal benefits which include:

EU citizenship for investor and his family (including children under the age of 28) within 6 months

Dual citizenship permitted

Protection by the diplomatic or consular authorities of any EU country

Visa-free travel to 157 countries

Freedom to reside, work, do business, study and travel anywhere in the EU, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Iceland

Right to vote and stand for European Parliament elections

Ability to sell the investment in 3 years

Children may take advantage of excellent education facilities including several UK universities with campuses on the island

Live in the 5th safest country in the world with the lowest crime rate in Europe